An Inspiring Journey: How Dianne Davis Conquered Stargardt’s Disease with Ocutech

Dianne Davis's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the life-changing power of innovation. Diagnosed with Stargardt’s Disease in her 40s, Dianne faced the daunting reality of progressive vision loss due to this rare genetic condition, also known as juvenile macular dystrophy. Symptoms like haziness, spotty vision, and light sensitivity threatened to rob her of her independence and stability.

The diagnosis was a pivotal moment for Dianne, who had built a life defined by her autonomy and professional achievements in the chemical lab of an oil refinery in Detroit, Michigan. The thought of losing her ability to drive, read, and perform her job duties filled her with anxiety and uncertainty about the future.

"Experiencing what I could only define as mental anguish," Dianne recalls, "I had all these questions about what my future would now look like."

However, Dianne's story took a hopeful turn when she was introduced to Ocutech in 2015. Initially, after her diagnosis in 1993, a low vision specialist had provided her with a handheld monocular telescope to manage her vision needs. But as her condition progressed, it was no longer sufficient. Enter the Ocutech VES Explorer lenses with 4X magnification.

"I'll never forget that immense joy I felt the second I put them on," Dianne shares with a smile. "Getting in the car and realizing I wouldn't have to compromise my future was deeply elating. I could drive, see signs and construction, and feel safe at work. Ocutech gave me the stability I needed."

The Ocutech VES Explorer bioptics are a marvel of modern technology. Small, lightweight, and comfortable, they provide edge-to-edge image sharpness, which has been crucial for Dianne. As her vision further declined, she transitioned to even stronger Ocutech version, the VES Sport II, which provided her with exceptional image clarity and brightness and she can even focus it to as close as 9 inches.

"Ocutech bioptics are much better than the original monocular telescope I had back in 1993," Dianne explains. "They are comfortable, easy to use, and help you focus on what you are seeing. They allow me to enjoy concerts and see the band like everyone else. It's amazing."

Now 72 and living alone, Dianne's independence remains intact, thanks to Ocutech. She encourages others with a visual impairment to visit a Low Vision specialist and ask to evaluate Ocutech’s products.

Dianne's journey underscores the importance of independence for individuals with low vision. Ocutech has given her the tools to reclaim her life and continue doing the things she loves.

"This whole experience has made me proud of myself and what I have accomplished in my life," she reflects. "Ocutech works, and being able to continue driving and living my life one day at a time, all while navigating the challenges of low vision, helps me take pride in who I am. It was and will always be a challenge to have low vision, but with tools like these lenses, I don't have to let it define me. And that's very special."

For anyone struggling with low vision, Dianne's story is a beacon of hope. Ask your low vision specialist if an Ocutech bioptic might be right for you. For more information about Ocutech bioptics or for a referral to a low vision specialist, visit https://www.ocutech.com/resources/self-assessment-form/ and complete the self-assessment form to receive expert guidance tailored to your vision and needs.